Dean's List Awarding Ceremony - 2023
“Success is no accident. It is hard work, perseverance, learning, studying, sacrifice and most of all, love of what you are doing or learning to do." — Pele, Brazilian soccer player
The Faculty of Science, University of Colombo hosted its first Dean’s List Award ceremony on August 31st 2023, to celebrate the outstanding achievements of its high-performing undergraduates. The proud parents and over 50 faculty members gathered to recognize the remarkable accomplishments of the 36 students from the graduating class of 2022 who received the coveted Dean's List Award.
The Dean's List Award is a distinguished honor bestowed upon undergraduate students who have maintained a GPA of over 3.7 for four consecutive years. The event, organized by the Student Performance and Evaluation Subcommittee of the Quality Assurance Cell was held at the auditorium of the Information Learning Centre (ILC), Faculty of Science.
The Dean of the Faculty of Science, Senior Prof. Upul Sonnadara delivered an inspiring speech, warmly congratulating the awardees on their exceptional academic achievement, and commending their resilience in the face of the pandemic and economic crisis. He highlighted the faculty's leadership in providing diverse educational pathways and proudly announced that the Dean's List Awards were first introduced with the 2018/19 intake, with this batch of awardees being the pioneers. He further expressed his gratitude to the parents and family members for their unwavering support provided to the students.
Two distinguished keynote speakers, Mr. Rohan Pethiyagoda and Prof. Ajith De Alwis, shared their insights with the audience. Mr. Rohan Pethiyagoda delivered an engaging speech focusing on the journey that led the awardees to their current position. He emphasized the role of self-discipline in achieving academic success and also highlighted the consequences of mismanagement in scientific domains outside of experts' purview.
In his address, Prof. Ajith De Alwis, emphasized the expectations and responsibilities of high-performing individuals toward the future of the country. He stressed the ultimate goal of each individual's journey and the significance of academic success in fostering innovation and economic growth.
Following the official proceedings, a musical event was organized by the Music Society of the Faculty of Science at the ground floor of the ILC. Awardees, along with their proud parents, had the opportunity to capture memories at the photo booth, creating lasting mementos of this exceptional celebration of academic excellence.
Let us see what the awardees had to say about themselves…
Anurangi R. G. S.
“I am R.G.S.Anurangi, a recipient of the dean's list awards, 2023. I followed biotechnology honours degree from the department of Plant Sciences, Faculty of Science. Currently I am working as a temporary assistant lecturer at the department of Plant Sciences.
During my university life,I held the position of the president of the Botanical Society, Faculty of Science for the year 2022/2023. I engaged with my society members in community related projects, nature related awareness projects such as TREE INVENTORY PROJECT initiated by the faculty. Apart from that I volunteered as a coordinator at Students' Computer Lounge and Library, Faculty of Science and Music Society. I hope to pursue my higher studies in the field of microbiology in future.”
Ariyadasa J. K. P. S.
“I’m Suhith Ariyadasa. I specialized in Information Technology and Management at the Department of Mathematics. I graduated with a first class honours and received the gold medal for “University of Colombo Award for Academic Excellence – 2022” under IT and Management degree program.
At present I work as a Theoretical Knowledge Instructor at Lakwin Flight Academy, Ratmalana. Within my job role, I conduct lectures for student pilots. Also, I extend my services as a Visiting Lecturer for Sri Lanka Airport and Aviation Academy. I read my Masters on Aviation Management in Digital Age and my future goal is to do more higher studies with regard to the aviation industry and serve our motherland.”
De Silva G. L. S. N.
“I am Sakalya Nipuni De Silva. I specialized in Plant Biotechnology from the Department of Plant Sciences with a first class honours while maintaining an overall GPA of 3.96. Currently I serves as an Assistant Lecturer within the Department of Plant Sciences.
At the general convocation 2022, University of Colombo, I was able to receive 4 gold medals and prizes including Professor B. L. T. de Silva Memorial Prize in Plant Sciences, Dr. Swarna Senathirajah Memorial Prize for Genetics and Plant Breeding, Professor R. L. C. Wijesundera Gold Medal for Plant Pathology and Microbiology, and University of Colombo Award for Academic Excellence in Bachelor of Science Honours 2022 in Plant Biotechnology. Additionally, in 2020, I was honoured to win the 1st runner up position in THEEWRA inter university singing and dancing competition organized by SLUCSM-CR. I am eager to continue my academic journey by pursuing postgraduate studies in microbial biotechnology, fueled by the passion cultivated during my undergraduate research. ”
Jayasena W. D. K.
“I received an award for the most outstanding project in disaster management at LEO multiple awards in 2019/2020. I also achieved 3rd place in hockey at the inter-faculty freshers' tournaments and secured 3rd place in the all-island school Navy cadet corps competition.”
Ketakela R. K. B. D. M. O. W.
“I am Omali Wimarsana Ketakela. I successfully completed my Bachelor of Science Honors degree in Plant Biotechnology with a First-class (GPA: 3.87) from the Department of Plant Sciences, University of Colombo. During my undergraduate years, I enthusiastically engaged in various extracurricular activities and also had the privilege of serving as the Media Coordinator for the Botanical Society of University of Colombo (2022-2023).
I currently serve as an Assistant Lecturer within the Department of Plant Sciences at the University of Colombo. I aspire to continue my research journey with the ultimate goal of actively contributing to the conservation of medicinal plants.”
Raiza Lareef F.
“I am Raiza Lareef and I specialized in Immunology and Integrative Molecular Biology at the Department of Zoology and Environment Sciences. I’m currently working as a demonstrator in the same department. I have performed well in Scrabble, both during my school and university years, representing the Faculty of Science in the Inter-faculty Freshers Scrabble Tournament. Additionally, I served as a blogger at the Base for Enthusiasts in Environmental Science and Zoology (BEEZ), and as a member of the Muslim Majlis at the University of Colombo. Driven by an unwavering passion for Immunology and Molecular Biology, I aspire to pursue higher studies and am firmly determined to make timely contributions to my field. My goal is to be remembered for my remarkable discoveries as an innovative scientist.”
Madawala Y. S.
“I'm Yasaswi Madawala, with a first-class honors in BSc. Business and Environment from the Department of Zoology and Environment Sciences. I currently work as a temporary teaching assistant in the same department.
In 2021, I led the Blogging Committee for the Base for Enthusiasts of Environmental Sciences and Zoology (BEEZ). I'm an active volunteer for the ZeroPlastic National Movement at both national and university levels, and held the position of Public Relations Director for the ZeroPlastic Colombo Community in the year 2021/22. I'm currently leading a school-level speech competition project with the ZeroPlastic Colombo Community. I also served as the deputy project head for the “e-green" project, an online awareness series by the ZeroPlastic Colombo Community in the year 2023. Additionally, I played a role as the Public Relations Coordinator for two consecutive years (2022 and 2023) in organizing the World Cleanup Day Celebrations in Sri Lanka for the ZeroPlastic National Movement. I received the Best PR Director award in 2022 at the ZeroPlastic National Awards for my dedication as a university student volunteer. In my third year at university, I participated in the “Break the Case" Hackathon Challenge at the Digital Career Week 2021 organized by Nestle Lanka PLC, achieving the 2nd Runner Up position with my team of 4 members.
My aspiration is to pursue higher studies in the field of Sustainability and, ultimately, to embark on a career working for the United Nations in this very area of interest.”
Nuha M. N. K.
“I am Nuha Nawzar and I specialized in Immunology and Integrative Molecular Biology at the Department of Zoology and Environment Sciences. I am currently working as a Research assistant at the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Colombo. While at university, I served as the English Editor for Muslim Majlis in the years 2021 to 2022. My current goal is to complete a PhD in Molecular Biology where I aim to conduct innovative research with dedication and perseverance. I will continue to work and make fruitful contributions to this field in the future, with a vision to bring together academia and industry to address and solve real-world challenges.”
Perera H. A. O. H. S.
“I'm Oshadi Perera. I specialized in Business and Environment from Department of Zoology and Environment Sciences of University of Colombo Faculty of Science. I'm currently employed at Sri Lankan Airlines – Flight Operations. I have been awarded with the Field Ornithology group Gold Medal for Business and Environment and UOC Academic Excellence Award for Business and Environment stream.During the undergraduate period I have been a member of Leo Club of UOC FOS and BEEZ as well as initiated the Zero Plastic Colombo Community for UOC as the first Vice president along with the main movement. I have also been participated in national programs of Zeroplastic movement. Apart from this I have been able to participate in IBOSL quiz competition during my undergraduate period. As my preference to the co-operate sector and sustainability, I would like to pursue my carrier in airline sustainability, reaching to the target of getting attached to international airlines worldwide.”
Rajapaksha B. M. G. G. K.
“I am Gihan Rajapaksha, and I specialized in Bioinformatics at the Department of Plant Sciences, achieving First Class Honors with a GPA of 3.79. Currently, I proudly serve as a Temporary Demonstrator within the same department. In addition to my academic achievements, I have been an active member of the Botanical Society (BOTSOC) at the Faculty of Science, University of Colombo. Over the past year, I took on the roles of Editor and Social Media Coordinator for BOTSOC, and I also served as Editor for the Botany Boost Blog. Looking ahead, I am determined to pursue further studies in the fields of human aging, cancer therapeutics, and bioinformatics to deepen my knowledge and expertise.”
Ranasinghe S. A.
“I am Shenali Avishka Ranasinghe. Having graduated with first-class honours in Immunology and Integrative Molecular Biology from the Department of Zoology and Environment Sciences, University of Colombo, I am currently employed as an Assistant Lecturer at the same. I received the Studentship for Academic Excellence in my first year and consistently made it into the Dean’s list in all four academic years. Having obtained the highest GPA within my degree program, I won the gold medal for Best Student and also the medal for Best Research based on my performance in the final year undergraduate research. I was a recipient of the University of Colombo Academic Excellence Award for my degree and was also awarded the University of Colombo Open Award – Professor Tilak Hettiarchchy Award for Academic Excellence at the General Convocation 2022. I am also a recipient of the “President’s Award for Scientific Research 2020” for the research publication that I co-authored in 2019/2020 collaboratively with the Institute of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, and Biotechnology.
During my four years in university, I have had a number of executive committee positions in several clubs. I held dual Secretary positions in both Euphony, the official choir of the Faculty of Science, and the Base for Enthusiasts in Environmental Science and Zoology (BEEZ), the official club affiliated with the Department of Zoology and Environment Sciences during the terms 2021/2022. I was also the joint Professional Development Director of the Rotaract Club of the Faculty of Science, Assistant Secretary of Euphony, and Project Manager of Colombo Beacon, a Youth organization of the University of Colombo in the years 2020/2021. Under my joint leadership in Rotaract, we won the Gold Award for the Most Outstanding Fundraiser and the Bronze Award for the Most Outstanding Professional Development Initiative for two projects we conducted namely, Future Challenge and Data Storm 2.0. I was also a member of the team that represented the University of Colombo at the Interuniversity Talent competition organized by the University of Sri Jayewardenepura in 2019 and won the title of the “Most popular singing group".
I am currently involved in preparing my research for a journal publication and authoring a book chapter with my undergraduate research supervisors and hope to pursue my postgraduate studies in evolutionary genetics, continuing the enthusiasm I developed following my undergraduate research on the Sri Lankan aboriginals. ”
Ranawaka R. A. N. K. C.
“I am R. A. Kithmadie Ranawaka, holding a First Class Honours degree in Chemistry with a GPA of 4.00, and currently serving as an Assistant Lecturer in the Department of Chemistry. During my academic journey, I was awarded the Dr. C L de Silva Memorial Prize, Professor H D Gunawardhana Scholarship, and Professor Mailvaganam Mahendran Scholarship based on my performance in Level 1, 2, and 3 examinations. At the General Convocation 2022, I received 8 Gold Medals including the Gold Medals for Physical Chemistry, Inorganic Chemistry, and Organic Chemistry, Bhikaji Framji Khan Gold Medal for Chemistry, Professor L.M.V. Tillekeratne Gold Medal for Chemistry, University of Colombo Award for Academic Excellence in 2022, and the esteemed Joseph Nalliah Arumugam Memorial Award.
I've also contributed to my alma mater by serving as Junior Treasurer of the Rotaract Club of the Faculty of Science in 2020 and as Assistant Secretary on the Sports Council of the University in 2022. I earned both the Sri Lanka University Colours Insignia and the University of Colombo Colours Insignia in 2019 and 2022. Captaining the university table tennis team to victory in the 2022 Inter-University Championship, with the team being recognized as the most outstanding women's team during the Colours Awarding Ceremony, stands as a memorable achievement. Furthermore, I was a member of the team that secured the second place in the SLAAS Inter-University Quiz Competition in 2022. My aspirations extend towards further exploration of my discipline and the earnest desire to serve my country to the best of my ability.”
Ratnayake R. M. H. U.
“I am Hirumi Ratnayake and I graduated with a first class (3.98 GPA) honors in Chemistry from the Department of Chemistry. I currently serve as an Assistant Lecturer in the same department. During my undergraduate years, I achieved excellence in Analytical Chemistry , earning the prestigious Dharmachandra and Tamarasa Gunawardhane Memorial Gold Medal for obtaining the highest cumulative marks in Analytical Chemistry coursework during my undergraduate years.
I am also a dedicated individual with a strong track record in leadership and organizational roles. I served as a Team Leader in AIESEC Colombo Central in 2019, and as an Organizing Committee Vice President for External Relations of the event 'INSIGHT' in AIESEC Colombo Central in 2019 and later took on the responsibilities of IR and Matching Specialist for the years 2020 and 2021. In 2020, I proudly held the position of Organizing Committee President for two impactful projects, 'UPSURGE' and 'For You', within AIESEC Colombo Central. In 2019, I also extended my influence as an Organizing Committee Vice President for Research and Development, for the project 'Transforming Youth Transforming Sri Lanka' under AIESEC Sri Lanka.Beyond AIESEC, I also devoted my time to the Sri Lanka Girl Guide Association, serving as the Former Secretary of the Social and Community Development Committee from 2021 to 2022.
In the future, I intend to continue my education while also giving back to the community with the aim of creating a positive impact in the lives of young adults and women.”
Samarasinghe R. M. N. S.
“I am Nimasha Samarasinghe, who has achieved First Class Honors in Immunology and Integrative Molecular Biology from the Department of Zoology and Environmental Sciences within the Faculty of Science at the University of Colombo. At present, I hold the position of a Demonstrator within the aforementioned department. Furthermore, I have had the honor of being designated as a recipient of the Dean's List for the academic years 2018/2019, 2019/2020, 2020/2021, and 2021/2022. My engagement extended to extracurricular spheres, encompassing representation in the inter-faculty freshers’ tournament for the hockey, Elle, rowing, and athletic teams. Concurrently, I assumed the role of Vice President within the Leo Club of the University of Colombo's Faculty of Science during the 2020/2021 term. Moreover, I undertook responsibilities as Assistant Network Administrator for the students' computer lounge and library in 2020/2021, advancing to the position of Network Administrator in 2021/2022. I also served as the Middle Board Director in the HR department of the Colombo Beacon for the 2020/2021 term. My future goal is to pursue higher studies in the field of molecular genetics and epigenetics and ultimately become a scientist who can make meaningful contributions to the world.”
Wijewardene D. R. R.
“I am Roshain Wijewardene, and I specialized in Bioinformatics at the Department of Plant Sciences, achieving First Class Honors with a GPA of 3.92. Currently, I hold the position of Temporary Assistant Lecturer in the same department. I was honored with two awards at the convocation: the Gold Medal for Bioinformatics and the University of Colombo Award for Academic Excellence in Bioinformatics. Outside of academics, I was an active member of the Botanical Society (BOTSOC) of the Faculty of Science, University of Colombo. I also served as the Librarian of the BOTSOC during the past year, actively contributing to the Blogging, Editorial, and Webinar teams. I hope to pursue higher studies and research opportunities in fields related to bioinformatics, genetics, and neuroscience.”
Eragama G. A. M.
“I'm Arunodhya Mandakinie Eragama, I specialized in Environmental Science from the Department of Zoology and Environment Sciences, University of Colombo, currently a temporary assistant lecturer in the same department. I've earned two prestigious gold medals, including the Prof. S. W. Kotagama Gold Medal for Best Student in Environment Sciences and the University of Colombo Academic Excellence award in Environmental Science. As an active member of the Field Ornithology Group of Sri Lanka and BEEZ club, I've had the honor of representing my university in various events, such as the Landslide Disaster Awareness Program and Planetary Health Hackathon conference. This journey has been a tremendous privilege and one of my life's best decisions.”
Bandaranayaka R. G. D. N. N. K. V.
“I am Dhananjaya Bandaranayaka and I’m currently working as an teaching assistant attached to the department of Chemistry. I graduated with a first class honors in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology. I was awarded with Prof Sujatha Hewage Scholarship for my academic excellence in level III. I will be participating in the Talent-Spot supported by Sakura Science Program organized by Kyoto University in coming November 2023. I worked as Biochemistry and Molecular Biology batch representative in ChemSoc (chemical society) in both level III and level IV. Currently I am planning to pursue my Higher studies in the field of cancer biology.”
Dias S. N. C. M.
“I am Chamod Dias. I specialized in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology at the Department of Chemistry. I am currently working as a Temporary Demonstrator attached to the same department. I was able to complete my undergraduate study with GPA of 3.81. A desire to extend my knowledge and an enthusiasm to Molecular Biology, Biochemistry and Biotechnology fields, motivated me to continue my higher education. I would like to continue my academic career by pursuing a PhD. and engaging in research work oriented on the fields of Molecular Biology and Genetics. My final goal is to serve the people as an established scientist in the field.”
Dissasekara R. K.
“I am Rashmi Dissasekara. I specialized in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology at the Department of Chemistry and I am currently working as a demonstrator attached to the same department. I was able to complete my undergraduate work with a GPA of 3.96. I was honored to receive the Sujatha Guruge Foundation Scholarship, offered by the Public Trustees Department of Sri Lanka, for achieving the best results of the faculty in the Year I examination. I am enthusiastic about interdisciplinary research in Biochemistry, Computational Biology and Quantitative Biology. I hope to pursue my higher education by engaging in research work oriented in the fields of Theoretical and Quantitative biology. ”
Perera J. P. K. A. R. D.
“I am Dayangi Perera, I graduated with first-class honors in Bachelor of Science specializing in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology. I am currently working as an assistant lecturer at the Department of Chemistry, University of Colombo. I received the University of Colombo award for academic excellence in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology at the General Convocation 2022 and Dr. Sujatha Hewage Scholarship for the academic performance in level III examination. I served as the vice president of Sri Lanka University Catholic Students’ Movement, Colombo Region in 2020/21 organizing numerous charity projects such as educational workshops for O/L students in rural areas of the country. With my strong passion for scientific research, I hope to render a positive impact on society in the future.”
Premadaskumarasiri J.
“I am Jasmini Premadaskumarasiri, specialized in Biochemistry & Molecular Biology at the Department of Chemistry. I am currently working as a temporary demonstrator at the Department of Chemistry. I was a member, content creator and actively engaged in organizing various events for the Hindu Society. I am quite interested in carrying out my higher studies in the field of Biophysics and writing books. My experience as a demonstrator has sparked a profound passion in me for teaching, hence I wish to pursue a career in academia as a lecturer.”
Boteju W. I. W. Y.
“I am Isiwara Boteju, a Temporary Assistant Lecturer at the Department of Physics and also a student researcher at the ALOKA research group of the Center for Instrument Development, Department of Physics, University of Colombo. My first publication “A quantitative approach to gemstone identification using Raman spectroscopy combined with machine learning” in the IPSL was based on research interests such as spectroscopy and machine learning. Additionally, I am keen on investigating the underlying concepts of flexible electroactive materials. I am honoured to have been awarded with the Dr. C.A. Hewavitharana Memorial Prize for Physics 2022, Mailvaganam Memorial Award for Physics 2022, Gulamhusein A. J. Noorbhai Gold Medal for the Best Physics Research Project 2022, and University of Colombo Award for Academic Excellence in Physics 2022. I served as the President of the Physics Society, University of Colombo for the term 22/23. Sathsara’23, Science Bus Phase III, and Department Dayout’23 were several signature projects that were accomplished under my guidance. I was also the Membership Development Director of the Rotaract Club of Faculty of Science for the term 20/21. I had the distinction of being the sole Sri Lankan participant in the Summer Studentship program of CERN in Geneva, Switzerland for the year 2023. I intend to pursue higher studies in Physics in the future.”
Fonseka T. L. M. D.
“I am Limini Fonseka, a Physics Honours degree student from the Department of Physics. I am also a physics enthusiast who finds immense joy in exploring the captivating realms of astronomy. I currently serve as a Temporary Assistant Lecturer at the Department of Physics, Faculty of Science, University of Colombo. Furthermore, I have been an active undergraduate researcher at the ALOKA Research Collaboration – Center for Instrument Development, Department of Physics. I was able to publish my first scientific article on “A quantitative approach to gemstone identification using Raman spectroscopy combined with machine learning” in the Sri Lankan Journal of Physics in 2022. Moreover, I have held leadership positions such as the Assistant Secretary of the Astronomical Society of University of Colombo for the term 21/22 and Secretary of the SEDS UOC for the term 20/21. I have also managed to serve as the project coordinator of ‘Coast to Coast’ initiated by the Rotaract Club of Faculty of Science, the event coordinator of FOS TV which was telecasted on behalf of the century celebrations of the Faculty of Science under FOS Media and as an organizing committee member for the projects such as Star Quest’ 22, and various community Night Camps under the Astronomical Society, ‘Science Bus’ Phase I, II, & III, ‘Physics Research Drive’ under the Physics Society, ‘Mistletoe Magic’, RACFOSUOC Installation Ceremony, ‘Creative Fusion’ under the Rotaract Club of Faculty of Science, and Meta+, ‘Socizilla’ under the Entrepreneur & Innovation (EI) Club. I was also a blogger and a photographer for FOS Media while a graphic designer for RACFOSUOC and EI Club. I am pleased to mention that I have been awarded the ‘Professor M. L. T. Kannangara Gold Medal for the Most Outstanding Physics Student of the Year’ in 2023 at the general convocation and the ‘Most Passionate Rotaractor of the Year’ for the term 20/21 at the ‘Hall of Fame’. With the hope of being a productive citizen, I look forward to pursuing a research-oriented career in the future.”
Gunaratne R. K.
“I am Rukshala Gunaratne, and I studied the honors degree program in Statistics offered by the Department of Statistics. I am currently a data analyst at Acuity Knowledge Partners. I was the President of Stat Circle in 2022/23. I was the Vice President of Stat Circle in 2021/22. I also served as the batch representative for physical science during the 1st and 2nd years. Furthermore, I contributed to the Rotaract Club of the Faculty of Science, University of Colombo, as the Assistant Secretary. I co-chaired award winning projects such as Data Storm 2.0 and “Heal you. Heal Us". I volunteered at the “Asian University Alliance – Youth Forum – 2019. Aspiring to pursue higher studies in biostatistics in the future.”
Maduwantha M. A. K.
“I am Kavinda Maduwantha. I specialized in Chemistry with a First Class Honours at the Department of Chemistry. Currently I work as a Temporary Assistant Lecturer at the Department of Chemistry.
I was awarded with the award of Academic Excellence in 2019 (Physical Science). I was awarded with two Gold medals at the General Convocation 2022 of University of Colombo. Professor Pearlyn Pereira Memorial Gold medal for Physical Chemistry and Professor R. S. Ramakrishna Gold medal for Inorganic Chemistry.
I was a general member of the Rotaract club of Colombo Central and worked as an Avenue Coordinator (Professional Development) for the year 2022/23. I was also an active member of the Epsilon Delta Society of Department of Mathematics (2019/20). One of my future goals is to be a comitted person towards the Advancement of Science by engaging in more and more effective Research projects.”
Sahabandu R. N.
“I'm Raweesha Nethmini Sahabandu, working as a data analyst at MiHCM Solutions Pvt Ltd and holder of a B. Sc. (Hons.) in Applied Statistics from the University of Colombo. In my university days, I was a member of the Rotaract Club at UOC FOS, contributing to community projects. Also, I served as a Coordinator at the Student's Computer Lounge Library, enhancing student facilities. With a strong blend of academic and community engagement, I continue to strive for excellence in all aspects of my journey.”
S.M.D.G.A.Siriwardena
“I am Gethmini Siriwardena, and I completed my specialization in Statistics at the Department of Statistics. Currently, I'm working as a Data Scientist at RS Metrics Asia Holdings (PVT) Ltd. I proudly graduated with a first class degree with a GPA of 3.98 along with the Mr. & Mrs. V.W. Samaranayake Memorial Gold Medal for Statistics. I am eager to continue my education to secure a rewarding career, and contribute to my community while living a balanced and fulfilling life.”
Sonnadara D. S.
“I am Dilshan Sonnadara. I specialized in Statistics at the Department of Statistics. My academic journey is adorned with the University of Colombo Award for Academic Excellence in Statistics, Gold Medal for the best final year project in Statistics, Award of Academic Excellence – 1st year examination in science (Physical Science), and the Mitsubishi UFJ Foundation Scholarship for best academic performance over two consecutive years. Additionally, I was the President of the University of Colombo Christian Fellowship and a volunteer at TKC, a program dedicated to teaching underprivileged children Mathematics and English. Currently, I serve as an Analyst at Acuity Knowledge Partners. With a vision for the future, I aspire to launch an AI company in Sri Lanka, offering opportunities to state university graduates.”
Sudasinghe S. P. P. M.
“I am Pavanthi Sudasinghe, and I completed my specialization in Statistics with Computer Science at the Department of Statistics. Currently, I am working as a temporary assistant lecturer within the same department. I proudly graduated with a first-class degree, along with three gold medals: the Prof. V.K. Samaranayake Memorial Gold Medal for the Best Student of Statistics with Computer Science, the Best Final Year Project of Statistics with Computer Science, and the University of Colombo Award for Academic Excellence in Statistics with Computer Science. I had the opportunity to serve as a blogger for the Colombo Beacon and as an editor for various projects for the Rotaract Club, including “Breathe" and “WiseAdvice." I aspire to continue my studies, and I am eager to make valuable contributions to the community.”
Wickramathilake S.
“I am Shameena Wickramathilake. I specialized in Applied Statistics at the Department of Statistics. Currently, I work as an Associate Data Evangelist at MAS Holdings. I was awarded the Gold Medal for Best Student in Applied Statistics and the Academic Excellence Award for Applied Statistics in 2022. During my academic journey, I actively participated as a member of both the Rotaract Club and the Epsilon Delta Society at the University of Colombo. I'm excited to continue learning and am looking forward to starting a Master's program in Data Science. My ultimate career aspiration is to establish myself as a professional in the field of Data Science, where I can contribute my knowledge and expertise to the ever-evolving world of data analytics.”
Ariyathilake G. P. P.
“I am Pawan Ariyathilake. I specialized in Industrial Statistics at the Department of Science. I am currently preparing to embark on a journey towards higher education, with a specific focus on furthering my knowledge and expertise in the field of Data Science.”
De Costa M. D. D.
“I am Dasitha De Costa. I specialized in Industrial Statistics at the Department of Statistics, University of Colombo. I am currently working as a Data Scientist at RS Metrics Asia Pvt. ltd.
I received Justin Samarasekere Award for most outstanding science student 2022. I got university colors for Taekwondo in 2019, 2021, 2022 and got SLUSA colors for Taekwondo in 2022 for becoming the champion in the heavy weight (87kg+) at the Inter University Games 2022. I also captained the team Taekwondo in 2021 where we became the 1st runner up in Virtual Inter University Games.
Also, I was the President of the Gavel Club of University of Colombo for the years 2020/21 and the Junior Treasurer of the Stat Circle, Department of Statistics, University of Colombo for the years 2021/22.”
Prabashwara S. M. A.
“I am Ashoka Prabashwara, and I specialized in Industrial Statistics from the Department of Statistics. I'm currently working as a Data Scientist at Acuity Knowledge Partners. I was honored to receive several academic medals, including the CR and Bhargavi Rao Gold Medal for Statistics, the Gold Medal for Industrial Statistics, and the University of Colombo Award for Academic Excellence in Industrial Statistics during the 2022 convocation. Additionally, I represented the university swimming team at the Sri Lanka University Games (SLUG) in 2019 and was recognized with university colors for my achievements. I have a deep-seated passion for data and analytics, and I am eager to further my education and specialize in the Data Tech field. By pursuing higher studies in this domain, I aim to gain advanced knowledge and skills that will empower me to create solutions harnessing the power of data to drive informed decision-making for businesses and organizations.”
Prathibhani M. S.
“I'm Sandali Prathibhani, a graduate of University of Colombo, faculty of Science. I recently completed my degree in BSc (Hons) in Industrial Statistics with a first-class. During my time at university, I actively contributed as the treasurer of the Student’s Association of Industrial and Financial Analysis and was involved in various organizations like FOS media, music society, and the Leo club of the Faculty of Science. I also excelled academically, conducting research on the consequences of COVID-19 pandemic on the main economic indicators of Sri Lanka , earning an “A" grade. My passion for data science led me to do an internship at R S Metrics Asia Holdings (Pvt) Ltd as a Data Science intern, where I transitioned into a Data Scientist role after six months.
Looking ahead, I aspire to pursue higher studies and continue progressing toward my career goals.”
Premasiri H. P. S. L.
“I'm Samadhi Lochana Premasiri, a proud graduate of the 2018/2019 batch. I specialized in Mathematical Finance at the Department of Mathematics and achieved a GPA of 3.94, which earned me the gold medal for academic excellence in Mathematical Finance. Currently, I work as a temporary instructor in the Department of Mathematics. Beyond academics, I've been an executive board member of the Buddhist Society at the University of Colombo. In my early years at UOC, I was a member of the Entrepreneurship and Innovations Club and the Leo Club where I directed the fifth phase of the Sipsara Project. My dreams are firmly set on a career in academia, where I hope to continue my passion for Mathematical Finance.”
Ubayawickrema S. I.
“I am Imalsha Ubayawickrema, a graduate of the Honours Degree program in Industrial Statistics offered by the Department of Statistics. I am currently an Associate Data Scientist at Dialog Axiata PLC.
I received the Gold Medal for Best Final Year Project in Industrial Statistics at the General Convocation 2022. I have held the position of Vice President at the Amalgamated Club in 2022, where I was able to contribute to organize events such as Champions Night '22, Inter-Faculty Freshers Championship, and a leadership training program.
During my final year, I captained the University Basketball Women's team, leading the team to the quarterfinals in the Inter-University Championship '22. In 2019, I was part of the university team that secured 1st runner-up in the Basketball Women’s Championship at the 13th SLUG, earning University Colours for Basketball in both 2022 and 2019. I also represented the Sri Lanka Universities' basketball team, which emerged as Champions at the 53rd Senior National Tournament in 2021.
Furthermore, I contributed to the Rotaract Club of the Faculty of Science, University of Colombo (RACFOSUOC) as the Joint Professional Development Director for the 2020/21 term. During my tenure, I chaired award-winning projects such as Future Challenge and Data Storm 2.0. I also volunteered for projects organized by the Stat Circle and served as the batch representative for Industrial Statistics during my 3rd and 4th years.
Looking ahead, I aspire to further my career in data science and my goal is to continuously expand my knowledge and skills in this dynamic field, contributing to advancements in data-driven decision-making. ”